Chincoteague ponies are driven to their holding pen during the southern herd roundup on Assateague Island in July. The fall roundup has been postponed because of the federal government shutdown.

Written by

Ted Shockley
| Staff Writer

The federal government shutdown has postponed a Columbus Day weekend roundup of the famous Chincoteague ponies, an event held annually so their health can be checked.

The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, where the herd of roughly 130 ponies live, has been closed to the public since the shutdown began Oct. 1.

The fall roundup is one of two held annually to administer deworming medications to the ponies and check for newborns. The mares and foals are taken to the carnival grounds to avoid the brisk coastal winters. ...